Published September 4th, 2013
Fall Vegetable Gardening Starts NOW Experienced gardeners are gearing up for a second season, focusing on crops that grow best in fall with cool nights. Broccoli, cabbage, cauliflower and Brussels sprouts are good examples. It’s actually a lot easier to succeed with these particular crops in fall than in spring and summer, because fall weather patterns are more predictable. We offer fall vegetable transplants at this time of year, or seeds for those who want to start their own.
Broccoli that matures during cool weather produces bigger, healthier heads that are sweeter tasting. Space broccoli 18 inches apart, planting the young plants slightly deeper in the ground than they were in the pot.
Broccoli needs a lot of nourishment, so it’s important to plant in rich compost and to fertilize with Garden Tone or fish emulsion. We have aged mushroom compost, ideal for recharging garden soils for fall crops. After harvest, you can squeeze a second crop, either now or in early spring, by fertilizing broccoli plants after you harvest the main head. This encourages side shoots to develop into new heads, particularly on the variety “Premium Crop”.
Since most Cauliflower varieties need about 2 months of cool weather to mature, fall is the best time to grow cauliflower. Set the seedlings 18 inches apart, with a depression around each plant to help hold water. Cauliflower requires constant moisture to produce large, tender heads; so make sure to soak the plants regularly and keep the soil moist. Mulch cuts down on evaporation and weeds, and cools the soil. We prefer self-blanching types, which have leaves that naturally curl over the head; otherwise you’ll need to pay attention and cover the heads as they ripen.
Brussels Sprouts are a perfect fall crop, since they survive freezing temperatures better than hot spells. Overnight fall frosts will bring out the sprouts’ sweetness. We carry “Jade Cross E” Brussels sprout plants, which produce larger sprouts that are easily removed from the stalk by hand.
Cabbage thrives in cool weather. A late crop is usually the more problem free and tastier than early cabbage, and timed just right for winter storage. Golden Cross is our favorite “mini-cabbage.” It matures quickly with tight, softball-sized, round heads. The small plants allow closer spacing in the garden or for growing in containers. Be sure to grow some red cabbage also; “Ruby Perfection” is makes nice compact solid round heads perfect for winter storage.
Fall crops can be decorative as well. We have a good selection of cold-hardy pansies perfect for renewing your garden or planters. Pansies harmonize well with decorative cabbage and kale plants, which give color in your garden even in snow.
Just when most people think the gardening season is over, you can have a fresh burst of exciting color to go with your pumpkins, gourds, and Indian corn.